Action On Aboriginal Self-Determination
Self-determination and recognition of Aboriginal people in Australia’s Constitution will be on the table for discussion today, at a gathering of Victorian Aboriginal community representatives hosted by the Andrews Labor Government.
The forum is a valuable opportunity for the Government to formally hear from the broader Aboriginal community about a model for self-determination and views on constitutional recognition.
Minister for Aboriginal Affairs Natalie Hutchins said the Government was determined to fight for the views of Aboriginal Victorians, ahead of the Federal Government’s Referendum Council, expected to report by mid-year.
The meeting, facilitated by respected Aboriginal leader Richard Frankland, will allow attendees to develop a process for working groups to investigate these issues and more.
In late 2015, Ms Hutchins announced new engagement forums to strengthen dialogue with Aboriginal Victorians, reflecting the Government’s commitment to establishing a meaningful and respectful two-way conversation.
The meeting will be held at Zinc, Federation Square, Melbourne from 2pm and will be streamed live from http://consult.aboriginalvictoria.vic.gov.au
Quotes attributable to the Minister for Aboriginal Affairs Natalie Hutchins
“For too long, governments have ignored the views of Aboriginal people. Instead, the Andrews Labor Government is listening and working in partnership with the Aboriginal community.”
“This meeting is about hearing directly from the Victorian Aboriginal community on constitutional recognition and what self-determination should look like in a modern Victoria.”
“We are working to present – and fight for – these views on the national stage.”